Breast reductions: what you need to know

Apr 24, 2018

It could be said that the majority of people who most appreciate a larger bust are the ones who don’t have to carry it around! If you’re considering a breast reduction, read on to see how Perth plastic surgeon, Dr Chris Allen will guide you throughout the whole experience.

You’re not alone
Breast reduction is a procedure that has appealed to many, many Australian women. It’s the back and neck pain, the headaches, the skin irritations – not to mention the difficulty in buying suitable, comfortable clothing – that makes breast reduction an attractive and sometimes necessary medical choice.

When you sit down with Dr Chris in Perth, you will be given as much time as you need to ask anything about the breast reduction procedure. That includes pre and post-operative care. Ask us any number of questions – we’re only happy when we’ve painted the full picture for you.

How do I qualify?
A larger bust is possibly something you’ve had to factor into day-to-day life since you were a blossoming teen.
Many patients come to us trying to manage back and neck pain, migraines and headaches and posture issues. Exercising isn’t always easy and bras made to hold a larger bust continually move or dig into the wearer. There’s also the intertrigo – a rash that becomes a problem under the breasts.

These are all reasons to seek a comforting, informative chat with us.

Can I order a new breast style?
Your final breast shape can vary depending on how much you want its size to be reduced by. I’ll chat to you about this as well as the scarring. The length and position of the scars can vary from patient to patient, depending on the size of the breast reduction and the amount of loose skin to be excised.
Please note that straight after surgery, it’s normal for your breasts to appear swollen and bruised. This will fade over time. Most of the scarring will be covered by your bra.

How long is the recovery period?
You’ll need two weeks off work. It will take approximately one month until you can resume normal daily activities, and six weeks until you can attempt full exercise. However, gentle below-waist exercise (e.g. walking) can commence around 3-4 weeks after surgery. You will need to avoid upper-body exercise until the full recovery period is complete.

Tips for a smooth recovery

A good, supportive bra is essential. All patients are supplied with two from the Dr Chris Allen practice.

Avoid strenuous exercise.

Don’t smoke, by abstaining from cigarettes you’ll get a better blood supply, which is necessary for healing.

To manage the scars, we will advise you when to gently apply massage to the wounds and the surrounding breast tissue. It’s very important that patients ‘listen’ to their body – if it hurts, don’t do it!

(Almost) Instant gratification
Post-surgery patients have told us time and time again that the benefits of breast reduction are felt almost instantly. Yes, patients may have some discomfort and pain following the procedure but the loss of weight and the symptoms that fall away with it are, in their words, worth it.
So, eye off that fun run. Take a stroll down the smaller-sized designer bra aisle. If you feel that a breast reduction will enrich your life, get in touch with with Dr Chris Allen – Perth plastic surgeon and breast reduction specialist. We’re ready to hear from you today.